Shanies: Artist of the Year

Typically, this award goes to whoever's been absolutely killing it for the past year. While that claim could still hold true, perhaps a better descriptor of this year's winner is the group that was able to overcome the most adversity; in fact, more than most bands go through in their lifetime.

On August 15, 2012, a bus carrying Baroness crashed near Bath, UK, injuring three of four members and seriously injuring two (Blickle and Maggioni who both suffered fractured vertebrae). Frontman John Baizley would walk away with a broken arm and leg and undergo months of rehab before beginning to play some acoustic shows.

In 2013, it was announced that Blickle and Maggioni would be leaving the band. The epic rhythm section would soon be replaced and Baroness would hit the road again in late 2013, touring into much of 2014. With two new members rapidly working into the fold of the group, the next major obstacle would have to be overcome: recording.

By creating a video log around the entire recording process, one can tell that it was not a simple jaunt in the park. While the new foursome had formed a solid bond on the road, the recording process is a different beast altogether. After nearly a year in a basement of writing and rehearsing, this prog-force returned to the studio to lay down their fourth LP, Purple, continuing their theme of the colour series.

In short, Purple, is fucking awesome, and a beautiful return to the Baroness sound for anyone who loves their slow, stoner-metal sound, alongside an obvious evolution in songwriting, lineup, and personal struggle. After what this band has been through, it the least you can do to take a listen.

-No, I can't being different versions of me... as far as the eye can see